DUCTUS LACRIMALIS Meaning and
Definition
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The ductus lacrimalis, also known as the lacrimal duct or tear duct, refers to a small tube-like structure in the human body that helps drain tears from the eyes. It is a crucial part of the lacrimal system, which is responsible for producing, distributing, and draining tears to keep the eyes lubricated and clean.
The ductus lacrimalis begins at the inner corner of the eye, where it connects to the lacrimal sac. From there, it extends downward, passing through a bony channel called the nasolacrimal duct, which connects the eye to the nasal cavity. This canal allows tears to flow from the lacrimal sac to the nasal cavity, ultimately joining the rest of the respiratory system.
The primary function of the ductus lacrimalis is to drain accumulated tears away from the eyes. When tears are produced by the lacrimal gland, they are spread across the surface of the eye by blinking. Excess tears and fluids then enter the lacrimal puncta, two small openings located in the inner corners of the upper and lower eyelids. From there, they empty into the lacrimal sac, which leads to the ductus lacrimalis. The ductus lacrimalis then collects these tears and transports them into the nasal cavity, allowing for their eventual removal from the body.
In summary, the ductus lacrimalis is an essential channel within the lacrimal system, playing a crucial role in draining tears and maintaining the health and lubrication of the eyes.
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Lacrymal duct, a curved canal beginning at the punctum lacrimale in the margin of each eyelid near the medial commissure and running transversely inward to empty with its fellow into the lacrymal sac.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for DUCTUS LACRIMALIS
- suctus lacrimalis
- xuctus lacrimalis
- cuctus lacrimalis
- fuctus lacrimalis
- ructus lacrimalis
- euctus lacrimalis
- dyctus lacrimalis
- dhctus lacrimalis
- djctus lacrimalis
- dictus lacrimalis
- d8ctus lacrimalis
- d7ctus lacrimalis
- duxtus lacrimalis
- duvtus lacrimalis
- duftus lacrimalis
- dudtus lacrimalis
- ducrus lacrimalis
- ducfus lacrimalis
- ducgus lacrimalis
- ducyus lacrimalis
Etymology of DUCTUS LACRIMALIS
The term "ductus lacrimalis" is derived from Latin.
"Ductus" comes from the Latin word "ducere", which means "to lead" or "to carry". In the context of anatomy, it refers to a duct or tube through which a fluid or secretion is conveyed.
"Lacrimalis" is derived from the Latin word "lacrima", which means "tear". It is related to the act of crying or shedding tears.
Therefore, "ductus lacrimalis" literally translates to "tear duct" or "lacrimal duct". It refers to the canal or pathway through which tears are carried from the lacrimal gland to the eye.
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